James McKnight, Jr.

Major James P. McKnight Jr., USA, Retired passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2025 with family by his side. Affectionately known as Jim, he was born in Atlanta, GA on January 31, 1944 to Major James P. McKnight Sr., USA, Retired and Virginia Gibson McKnight. Preceded in death by his parents, he is survived by his wife of 57 years, Becky Miller McKnight, son, Lieutenant Commander James P. "Scooter" McKnight, III, USCG, Retired (April), daughter, DeBekka McKnight Griggs (Wayne), cherished grandchildren, Jillian McKnight, Jenna McKnight, Laura Joelle McKnight and Craig Miller McKnight, Sister-in-law Sue Miller, nieces Holly Looney Pichard (Mark), Staci Fox (Greg Cole), Hannah Bowick, nephew Tod Miller (Jessica), his emotional support pet, Princess Monkey Britches and many more family and friends that he held in his heart. He graduated in 1962 from Fort Knox High School in Fort Knox, KY. Jim made the ultimate choice and enlisted in the US Army in 1965. While enlisted, Jim earned the following commendations: 2 Bronze Stars, 2 Purple Hearts, 2 Meritorious Service Medals, 2 Army Commendation Medals with Valor, 2 Army Achievement Medals, Vietnam Service Medal with 3 stars and a Vietnam Gallantry Cross with 2 stars. After many tours across the country and several on foreign soil, Jim retired in 1985, settling for his family's final home in Mobile, AL. He began his second career with the US Postal Service retiring again in 2002. He was a faithful member of Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church for many years before joining Christ United and began his final career as a LifeGate volunteer for the church. If you knew Jim, you also knew that he was an avid Georgia Bulldog Fan. The family would also like to acknowledge his Visiting Angel Patricia, his hospice nurse Beth RN and his hospice aide Queen for their care and compassion through Jim's final days. Funeral services will be held at Christ United Church on February 4, 2025 with visitation beginning at 10 am and service at 11. Interment will be at Mobile Memorial Gardens following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to LifeGate Ministry at Christ United Church.

Pallbearers are Craig Miller McKnight, Wayne Griggs, Tod Miller, Mike Miller, Mark Pichard, Marco Angelini, Eric Wegner and Jessi Coors.

Honorary Pallbearers are Jim McMillian, David Vesley, Nick Elmes and all members, past and present, of "A" Company 4/23rd Battalion from Vietnam.